Throwing bows

I wanted to name this post "Throwing bows" because the focal points of this shirt are clearly the elbow patches and it reminds me of something that rappers say. Urban Dictionary gives this definition for "throwing bows":

Three letters describe my reaction to that: L O L.

What, you guys didn't know that I was a secret clubber?!?!?! ;)

Well, if the patches didn't already give it away, this is the free pdf pattern by Deer and Doe, the Plantain. This pattern has been out for a bit and I'm sure most of you have seen it around, but I am totally kicking myself for not making it sooner. It might be my new favorite knit top pattern. Considering all I ever want to make are long sleeve knit tops that is a big statement coming from me!

For the Plantain pattern you have a choice between long, three quarter, or short sleeves. Include elbow patches or don't. My favorite part is the flair from the waist, it makes the shirt so flowy and comfy.

The construction of this shirt went together smoothly for the most part. My only issue is with my twin needle. The tension must have been off somewhat because the hem is wavy. It doesn't bug me enough to not wear the shirt, but it's still annoying! Does anyone have any tips for conquering this issue? It's happened to me with a few shirts when I have used a twin needle and I must be doing something wrong.

The pretty purple jersey is from The Fabric Store in Los Angeles and you might recognize the scraps of leopard from my Project Sewn first look. You see, this is why I hoard my fabric scraps! You never know when you might need elbow patches, right?

Happy weekend, guys! Will I be seeing any of you in the clubs? hahahahha!

30 comments
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Your are my go-to reference for good knit shirt patterns :) I've had trouble with wavy hems too! Most recently I tried using a steam-a-seam equivalent (I think I had stitch witchery on hand), and I ironed my hem into place with fusible to keep it in place, then stitched it. I was happy with the results. See ShanniLove's post on knits from a few weeks back.

Super cute. You can use a light interfacing or a tape like Bondaweb to stabilise your hems. I found when I bought a coverstitch machine I no longer got wavy hems, it is to do with the feed and the tension, basically your machine is stretching the fabric as it is sewing.

As far as the wavy hems go, do you have a walking foot? That really helps, plus lowering the tension way down. Also, as some other folks mentioned, stabilizing the hem first with something like fusible knit stay tape can work, too. Plus ironing it well will help a little, too.

About Me

Hi! I'm Erin Fosmire and I like reading, sewing leopard print stuff, beach walking, quilting, and knitting in Pismo Beach, California. I'm currently life sidekicking with my husband Luke and living with our three cats and three dogs.